NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee football will have a changing of the guard in 2023. With quarterback Hendon Hooker on the way out, Joe Milton is set and ready to take the reins of the offense.
During the offseason, Milton got to go down to Louisiana and attend the Manning Passing Academy. Almost every big-time name in the nation descended on the camp, including LSU’s Jayden Daniels. At SEC Media Days on Monday, Daniels spoke highly of his SEC counterpart.
“His arm strength is ridiculous,” Daniels told media in Nashville. “That’s what stands out the most. How much zip he has on the ball and his velocity, a very strong arm. Tennessee, he waited after Hendon, he was a great player and a great quarterback.”
Both Milton and Daniels transferred into the SEC. Daniels, transferring from PAC-12 team Arizona State, was confirmed to be the Tiger’s starting by LSU head coach Brian Kelly during his remarks on Monday. While Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel hasn’t said that Milton will be the Vols’ starter, it is almost certain that he will be the signal caller for 2023.
Daniels finished the 2022 season with just under 3,000 yards for the Tigers, leading them to an SEC West Championship. He ran for 885 yards as well.
Milton has not yet maintained the starting job at Tennessee for a full season, but he will be tasked with doing just that in 2023. All eyes will be on Knoxville and Milton, including Daniels’.
“I am excited to see what he does this year also as a football fan and a fan of them,” Daniels said. “I respect his game and I can’t wait to see what he does this year.”
While not a starter during the season, Milton showed potential at the conclusion of the season following Hooker’s injury. While defeating Vanderbilt to conclude the season, and securing an Orange Bowl victory over Clemson, Milton threw for almost 400 yards while completing over 50% of his passes.
